Chapter 7
Istare in disbelief at the message scrawled across Saras sorority house door. CAMPUS KILLER. Sara lets go of my hand and rushes to the door, frantically trying to wipe the red paint off with her scarf. But its no use, the words mock us.
Anger wells up inside me as I watch Saras desperate attempts to clean the door. I step forward and firmly pull her back, turning her away from the door to face me.
Sara, stop. Just leave it. Youre only making it worse.
She looks up at me, her grey eyes filled with tears. I cant just leave it there, Dimitri. What if someone sees it?
I take a deep breath and force myself to calm down. Its okay. Ill take care of it.
I lead her inside her room and close the door behind us. She sinks down onto her bed, her shoulders slumped in defeat.
This isnt the first time Ive received a threat like this, she says softly. Ever since Boris and Andrei... Ive been getting these kind notes and messages. I dont know whos doing it, but theyre trying to scare me.
I sit down next to her and take her hand in mine. I didnt do it, Dimitri. I would never hurt anyone like that. And I certainly wouldnt go after your men. I didnt even tell my dad. I swear!
I squeeze her hand reassuringly. I know you wouldnt. And I believe you.
She nods, her eyes filling with tears again. I just want it to stop. I dont feel safe anymore.
I pull her into my arms and hold her tight. I wont let anything happen to you, Sara. I promise.
Im not leaving you alone tonight, I say firmly. Ill stay here and make sure youre safe.
Sara pulls away from me and looks up, her grey eyes filled with uncertainty. I appreciate the offer, but I dont think that is a good idea.
I shake my head. I obviously cant let you stay here alone after what just happened. What if the person that did this is still lurking around…
Sara bites her lip, looking torn. But where will you sleep? Theres only one bed in my room.
I shrug. I can sleep on the floor. Its not a big deal. Dont let me sleep on the floor.
Saras eyes widen in horror. No way. I cant let you do that. The floor is too uncomfortable and you wouldnt get any sleep.
I sigh. Sara, Im not going to argue with you about this. Im staying here and thats final.
Sara crosses her arms defiantly. Fine. But youre not sleeping on the floor. Well share the bed.
I raise an eyebrow. Are you sure thats a good idea?
Sara rolls her eyes. Dont flatter yourself, Dimitri. We both need to get some sleep tonight and we wont be able to do that on the floor.
I nod slowly. Alright. If thats what you want.
I shrug nonchalantly, trying not to let my eagerness show. Thats fine with me. Strictly platonic, I promise.
Sara eyes me warily, still looking uncertain. No funny business then? You’ll keep your hands to yourself?
I hold my hands up in mock surrender. You have my word. Ill be a perfect gentleman.
She nods, seeming to relax a little. Okay then. Im going to get ready for bed.
Sara grabs her pajamas and heads to the bathroom to change and brush her teeth. I settle onto the edge of her bed, resisting the urge to lie back and get comfortable.
This isn’t your bed, I remind myself.
When Sara returns, she avoids making eye contact as she slides under the covers on the relatively far side of the small bed. I follow suit, trying not to crowd her. We lay there awkwardly for a few moments, both staring up at the ceiling.
“Well… goodnight then, Sara says softly. “And… thank you, I guess.”
Goodnight, I reply.
I hear her tossing and turning every few minutes.
Having trouble sleeping? I ask.
Ugh, yes, she replies in frustration. Im sorry, I didnt mean to keep you awake.
Its okay, I dont mind, I say gently. It must be because of all the stress from today. I can help you relax if you want me to.
She hesitates. How exactly are you going to help me relax?
I smile. Do you trust me?
Sara snorts. Absolutely not. But go ahead.
I chuckle. Fair enough.